John Benjamin was born in England in 1823. In 1849, at the age of 26, he immigrated to America with the goal of seeking opportunities in the new world and improving the life of his family. During his immigration and eventual settlement in Hutchinson, Minnesota, John saved many personal letters that were written by and to him. These letters, the subject of this web site, bring to life his immigration and the life of others during this courageous adventure. The most recent letters posted on this sight are on this front page. To see all the earlier letters, keep pressing the “Older Posts” button on the bottom of this page. The earliest letter recorded here is June 20, 1849. The letters…………

March 2, 1890 John Benjamin-1823 to Family

Roseland, La
March 2, 1890
Dear Ma and All the Dear Ones,
Your letter of the 25th has come to hand tonight.  We are glad to hear that you, Ma, was improving but sorry to hear that Winfred was not very well.   I hope that he is all right ere this reaching you.  Glad to hear that you received my letter of last week and its contents all right.   Am glad that you were able to help Arthur to get his board paid and pants too.   I have been obliged to get an overcoat and two pairs of pants since I came here.  I sent to Boston to Plymouth Rock Pants Co for last pair as I could not get any to fit any nearer. 
Your cold wave reached us here on Friday last when instead of snow, as with you, we had wind and heavy rain and frost yesterday, this morning too, which killed some of the garden truck.   I wrote to Mr. Adams last week.  I hope to hear from the friends there that they are all doing well over the La grippe. 
How is Uncle Henry getting along?   I have not heard you say anything about him lately.   I hope he is well.  Give my kindest regards to him.   Have not heard from Arthur the past week.  When is his vacation?  Let me know when you write.  What has Robbie done about Howard’s colt?
Ma, you must be very careful that you do not take cold by going into the creamery or out of doors to hunt eggs.  While it is so cold, any set back after the La Grippe is something worse than the grippe itself, so it behooves you to be very careful in this respect .   Not to be too venturesome. 
I hope that both Frank & Minnie have both got well again.   I shall be glad to hear from Winfred when he has time to write me.  Also from Robbie and Mattie too.
My love and regards to all and all enquiring friends.   From,
Father
PS – I have just returned from taking care of a sick man…. now PM.  As I was called away, George came in with a fine letter from Winfred which I shall answer soon.  I don’t have time tonight as I must go and [visit] this man again.  Have written to Arthur today.  Howard & Olive are with the sick, and George too.  Louise & I are in the house for a few minutes.  The girls intended to write.
Yours,
Father

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